Tamron 90mm Macro Lens

A macro lens has been one of my personal favorite lenses ever since I took up photography. I like how it allows me to explore everyday items by taking close up shots. I remember shooting images for a whole photo exhibit with a single macro lens.

I’ve been curious about the Tamron SP 90mm f/2.8 Di Macro VC USD lens (SRP P38,990.00). I borrowed one and I’ve been shooting with it for almost two weeks.

What are my impressions?

It’s a hefty lens to handle due not only to its metal construction but also because of its VC (Vibration Control) gyro. The lens also has a built-in accelerometer that works with the VC gyro to better prevent camera shake.

The Tamron SP 90mm Macro VC USD lens will work with either full frame or cropped sensor bodies for either Canon, Nikon or Sony (the Sony mount model however does not have VC).

What do I like about the Tamron SP 90mm Di Macro VC USD lens?

I like the fact that it comes already with a lens hood. Shooting at f/2.8 gives you smooth out of focus highlights because the aperture has 9 blades. The lens is moisture proof and dust resistant. Each switch on the lens has its own rubber seal along with an additional sealing between the focusing and lens barrel.

Yes, the VC does a good job of minimizing camera shake. I took a handheld shot using a shutter speed of 1/20 and still got good results.

The internal focusing used by lens does not affect the physical length of the lens while shooting (which is important for me while doing close up photography).

I do want to try out the Tamron TAP-in ™ console and see how customizing the lens functions can better improve its shooting performance.

What don’t I like about the Tamron SP 90mm Di Macro VC USD lens?

It doesn’t come with a tripod collar. I wish that Tamron offered a tripod collar for it at least as an optional accessory. I like switching from horizontal from vertical orientation while shooting. I could use an L-bracket. But there is no way I take a vertical shot using an L-bracket if I am also using a macro rail.

The Tamron SP 90mm Di Macro VC USD lens is available at the Tamron store located at 3/F VMall, Greenhills, SJ, MM.